chairman’s message Hopefully, this will also inspire the Government to live up to its commitment to full observance of the 30 Articles of the UDHR and be counted among the leaders in this field. In respect of the above, the Commission had in 20091 formed an Inter-Working Group (Inter-WG) Committee on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Follow-Up. The Inter-WG, comprising focal officers from all Working Groups within the Commission, continues to monitor implementation of the Government’s UPR commitments. The monitoring mechanism is important to ensure the steady fulfilment of commitments. The Commission is pleased with some of the progressive efforts thus far and hopes that the monitoring mechanism will encourage the Government to implement its international obligations at a more robust pace. Notwithstanding the tangible steps taken by the Government, the Commission continues to face a number of challenges which are perennial in nature, not the least of which is the need to continue to engage with Government agencies, especially those with enforcement powers, for the purpose of creating greater awareness, understanding and observance of, and respect for, human rights, as well as of the statutory mandate and role of the Commission. As Chairman, I wish to acknowledge the many organisations and individuals, Government agencies, the Judiciary, members of the Bar, academicians, community leaders, NGOs and other civil society groups, as well as the mass media for their continuous encouragement of, and support for, the Commission’s work — despite deficiencies in some areas — that have made possible the fulfilment of the Commission’s mandate. I wish to express my deep appreciation to the United Nations Country Team and the European Commission for their support and collaboration throughout the year in the realisation of the Commission’s vision. The Commission is equally grateful to the increasing number of human rights defenders for their energetic efforts in promoting awareness and seeking remedies on behalf of those whose rights have been violated. We are inspired by their strong commitment to the UDHR and aspiration to see all human beings live with dignity and respect, as well as protected against discrimination, exclusion, oppression and violence. The Commission will work closely with them, as it will with all stakeholders including Government agencies. Their continued support and cooperation are vital for the full realisation of human rights in Malaysia. I would like to pay tribute to my fellow Commissioners — the Vice Chairman, Professor Datuk Dr 1 4 See Chapter 7 of the Commission’s 2009 Annual Report